Medalists of Team Cebu City-Cebu Blue Marlins pose after the 1st Panaad Swimfest.(Contributed)
Swimmers from the vaunted Team Cebu City-Cebu Blue Marlins made waves in the 1st Panaad Invitational Novice and Advance Age-Group Swimming Meet held last Saturday at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex in Mansilingan, Bacolod City.
The Cebu team won 59 gold medals, 35 silvers, and 20 bronze medals, with 29 of the 40 Cebuano swimmers winning at least a medal in different age groups.
Leading the way for the Cebu team was 8th Olango Challenge 6k champion Michael Ichiro Kong, who won a total of six gold medals in men’s competition.
Mike Gabrielle Dela Serna and Rafael John Dacaldacal of University of Cebu (UC) also bagged five golds each. All three swimmers won the Most Outstanding Male Swimmer award.
Joining them on the list were Mike Gabrielle Dela Serna of Tabunok Central School, Johan Christian Abogadie, and Jobert Indaya of the University of Cebu.
In the distaff side, Karen Mae Indaya of the University of Cebu bagged five golds while Trina Caneda and Romilyn Niña Ignacio added three each and were awarded Most Outstanding Female Swimmers.
Joining them were Isabella Marie Diehl of Bright Academy, Razel Cabajar of University of San Carlos, and Dianne Kaye Sy.
CBM Coach Rolando Alvarez told Cebu Daily News he was happy with the performance of the team. He said the victories were a product of their month-long preparation and dedication.